I think if you use the on-line search page for the SOS that would meet the definition of a
“reasonable and diligent” search and should be adequate for your purposes. If you are going to litigate, then a certified copy would be preferable.
The search will disclose the entities legal name, the file or corp number, the date of filing,
the filing status and the agents name for service of process. Best of all, it is free and fast.
Try it out at this
Link.